As the buzz around Scream 4 grows, spoilers from test screenings are spreading fast. To dodge spoilers and embrace nostalgia, let’s revisit the electric atmosphere surrounding Scream 2 test screenings from 1997.

The screenings, held in New York City on November 21, brought lucky attendees face-to-face with director Wes Craven and star Jada Pinkett, who slipped into the audience incognito. Here’s a look at two reviews from Ain’t It Cool News that captured the excitement of those test screenings.

Review 1

“I just got back from the screening of Scream 2. Of course, the ticket said we were seeing Phantoms, but before it started, someone told us we were watching Scream 2. They asked us not to spoil the ending—so, tough luck, spoiler fans.

In many ways, Scream 2 is as good as the original, though it’s a very different movie. While the first spoofed traditional horror (namely Halloween), this one shifts between comedy and scares.

The humor works well, revolving around Stab, the movie-within-the-movie. Heather Graham plays Drew Barrymore’s role, Tori Spelling plays Neve Campbell, and Skeet Ulrich’s character seemed merged with Dewey (David Arquette). The opening with Jada Pinkett is hilarious and creepy.

The scare factor is intense. You WILL jump. Original and clever, it twists classic tropes. One standout scene is Sidney in a Greek tragedy at her college, surrounded by actors in Greek masks. She hallucinates that one of them is Ghostface—an eerie moment heightened by Danny Elfman’s chilling score.

The ending is a wild u-turn, keeping you guessing. Seeing this as part of a trilogy makes you wonder if the killer’s identity is ever truly solved. It’s a film you’ll want to revisit for hidden clues. Definitely see it with an energetic crowd—it’s a rollercoaster ride.”

Review 2

“I was offered tickets for Phantoms but was told, ‘Actually, it’s Scream 2.’ Hell yes! The theater buzzed as Wes Craven and Jada Pinkett walked in incognito.

The opening scene, set in a theater screening Stab, mirrored the excitement in the audience. Jada Pinkett nailed her performance with witty, sharp dialogue. The film kept everyone guessing until the very end.

It was a thrill seeing Scream 2 before anyone else, and the movie exceeded expectations. It elevated everything from the original—performances, deaths, and fun. Listen closely for Friends and Party of Five jokes for extra laughs. As a film geek, I was delighted. It’s a worthy sequel that improves on the first.”

A Glimpse Behind the Curtain

The test screenings were as much about fan engagement as they were about refining the final cut. Wes Craven’s presence in the audience reflected his dedication to the series, while the audience’s genuine reactions highlighted the film’s thrilling and comedic balance.

If Scream 4 screenings evoke even a fraction of this energy, fans are in for a treat. Let’s hope the latest sequel delivers the same mix of suspense, humor, and clever meta-commentary that has defined the franchise.

Stay spoiler-free, folks, and keep an eye out for Scream 4 in theaters this April!